BTN.com staff, August 21, 2012

The Big Ten announced its 2012 men?s soccer Preseason Coaches? Poll and Players to Watch List on Tuesday, with the conference's last two regular-season champs tied at the top. Northwestern, fresh off its first Big Ten title, and 2012 champ Indiana were picked as the conference favorites.

Northwestern compiled a 4-0-2 record in Big Ten play last season en route to the conference crown, while Indiana finished at 3-1-2 en route to advancing to its 25th consecutive NCAA tourney.

In addition, the coaches each selected three players from their own teams to a Players to Watch list. View the complete PDF here.

The 2012 season kicks off Friday, with five conference teams opening play.

BIG TEN MEN?S SOCCER PRESEASON COACHES? POLL

T-1. Indiana
T-1. Northwestern
3. Michigan State
4. Ohio State
5. Penn State
6. Wisconsin
7. Michigan